STARS dinner in Dubai, in support of the Jordan River Foundation and young victims of abuse

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The STARS Foundation dinner held on January 17, 2002 in Dubai successfully raised US$250,000 for the Jordan River Foundation (JRF), one of Jordan's most active NGOs. Among the guests of honour were Her Majesty Queen Rania Al-Abdullah of Jordan, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid al Maktoum, and the Honourable William Jefferson Clinton.

As part of the entertainment on the night, Arabic singer Elissa and a member of the Gypsy Kings sang several songs in a fusion of East meets West, not forgetting the song 'It’s all about the Children', by Kenny Jones, featuring Ronnie Wood and Paul Young.

Her Majesty Queen Rania has worked consistently to help children in her own country. In 1995, Her Majesty established the JRF to help low-income women establish their own businesses. In 1998, the JRF launched the Child Safety Programme to protect children at risk from abuse and provide safe houses and education.

At the STARS Foundation dinner, Her Majesty described herself as a great believer in children as our guiding light and as symbols of hope towards a brighter future. In his speech, the Honourable William Jefferson Clinton encouraged the promotion of peace, the need to fight for every child’s right to education and for building bridges between people and nations. Former US President Clinton talked specifically about the need to build understanding and interdependence, as well as the importance of nurturing an appreciation and a respect of our differences as individuals. “Since the aftermath of September 11, it is so much more crucial that we all develop a global consciousness,” said Clinton.

Amr Dabbagh, Founder of the STARS Foundation, outlined his view of the Foundation. “STARS is all about possibility and has the potential to make things come true, recognising the value of corporate responsibilities outside of commercial interests. Our aim tonight is to bridge divides and make the world a better place for children.”